Vision: Built to withstand the blaze, resilient in the face of fire. A future where wildfire preparedness is second nature, communities thrive in fire-adapted landscapes, and wildfires strengthen rather than devastate Nevada County’s environment and way of life. In the event of a wildfire in Nevada County, the community is adequately prepared so that no life is lost, damage to property is minimal to none, and natural systems are revitalized by fire rather than destroyed by it

Frequently Asked Questions about the Wildfire Ready Coalition of Nevada County (WRCNC)

How did this organization start?
In response to the L.A. wildfires in January, a few people who were very active in local Firewise Communities (FWCs) recognized an urgent need for expanded support for FWCs. They approached the Nevada County Coalition of Firewise Communities (CoalitionFWC), and that group agreed a new organization was needed that would be focused on wildfire preparedness education and support for residents, visitors, and communities – especially Firewise Communities.

Who was involved in starting the new organization?

Jo Ann Fites-Kaufman, co-lead of Salmon Mine-East Sages FWC; a retired U.S. Forest Service fire scientist; California-certified prescribed-fire “burn boss;” and North San Juan resident who has performed 28 Hazard & Risk Assessments for NFPA recognition of Nevada County FWCs
Bob Long, leader of Sherwood Forest FWC; past Chair and current Steering Committee member of the Coalition.
Maureen Graber, Steering Committee member of Banner Mountain FWC; Firewise Festival planning committee.
Kristen Cook, leader of You Bet FWC; Steering Committee member of the Coalition; Firewise Festival planning committee.
Dario Davidson, a Registered Professional Forester who lives in South County and has performed over 50 Hazard & Risk Assessments for NFPA recognition
Jeff Peach, leader of Banner Mountain FWC; current Steering Committee member of the Coalition.
Paul Tebbel, board member of Greenhorn Firewise FWC
Jason Hajduk-Dorworth, retired Santa Cruz Fire Chief; leader of Martis Peak FWC.

When did the new organization start?

The new organization launched in April 2025 under the name “Fire Safe Nevada County Coalition.” The name reflected the focus on wildfire preparation and the important role of the Nevada County Coalition of Firewise Communities.

In October 2025, the Board of Directors voted to re-name the organization “Wildfire Ready Coalition of Nevada County.”

“Wildfire Ready” underscores the urgency of the wildfire situation in Nevada County. ”Coalition” was retained in the new name in recognition of the important role of the Firewise Coalition in Nevada County and its credibility with thousands of Nevada County residents. “Coalition” also recognizes the importance of collaborating with a n even broader range of partners, agencies, businesses, and organizations in Nevada County. The new name also eliminates confusion with similarly named organizations in Nevada County.

What is the role of the Nevada County Coalition of Firewise Communities in Wildfire Ready Coalition?

The Coalition of Firewise Communities Committee continues to host meetings and provides important input and support to Wildfire Ready Coalition.

Is Wildfire Ready Coalition a charitable non-profit? Who is on the Board of Directors?
We are incorporated as a 501(c)3 California non-profit community benefit corporation. Our Board of Directors include Jo Ann Fites-Kaufman, President; Bob Long, Treasurer;  Terry Hastings, Secretary, and Members at Large: Monty East, Linda Ferguson, Bill Greeno, Wanda Mertens, Marcia Salter, and Erin Tarr.

How does Wildfire Ready Coalition support itself?
We live in a wildfire area that’s rated Very High Risk, and the threat of wildfire affects everyone. We believe a great many people will be willing to join/donate to Wildfire Ready Coalition because of our financial and organizational transparency, the strong qualifications of our founders and Board members, and because the former Nevada County Coalition of Firewise Communities, has credibility and the trust of thousands of local residents. 

What is the business plan?

Our business plan calls for a very lean staff (three employees) in a small office that will rely on volunteer support to achieve our goals. We plan on supporting core operations with donations and using grants for projects. We are pursuing small grants to provide our start-up funding. Like the Membership/donor structures at many local non-profits, we offer a membership/donor program to FWCs, residents, the public and local businesses. 

If I donate money, how will I know it will go toward direct support of residents, communities, and especially Firewise Communities?
Our entire purpose is to make Nevada County “wildfire ready” – to support fire preparedness in Nevada County. Feel free to suggest projects that will benefit our community. Our financial statements and books are open to the community and can be viewed by making an appointment with our Treasurer, Bob Long.

How can I sign up to volunteer?
It’s easy. Visit the Volunteering section of our website and choose what kind of volunteer work you want to do. Help in the office. Mentor new or other FWC leaders. Help organize educational events. Help raise funds. Or suggest whatever you think will help!